By Stacia Kindler

Staff Writer

It’s crunch time this spring with flashes of the midriff popping up as an interesting surprise on the runways as well as in the retail world. Perfect timing as Spring Break approaches and we welcome and anticipate beach weather with open arms. But stay classy Framingham State, because the key to using your midriff as a fashion accessory is this: keep it minimal, it’s not a bathing suit.

As I had mentioned, the midriff should be used as an accessory, as a kind of skin-belt or unexpected ornament peeking through a cutout or sheer overlay. Miu Miu, collections by Miuccia Prada, shows it best this season with amusing yet subtle examples of skin-toned bandages tied around the body. In the Miu Miu collection for spring ready-to-wear, Prada pairs cropped separates with high-waist pencil skirts to create this grown-up rendition of the crop top.

Belly shirts and crop tops have been the partner in crime to pop-culture icons and bubblegum artists since the genre was invented by the Madonnas and Britneys of the ‘80s and ‘90s. However, as the midriff trend of 2012 marks off a no-belly-button zone, it is safe to say the look has matured into something fashionable and acceptable instead of just celebrity norm and nightclub fashion.

A way to perfect this look without appearing underdressed (literally) is to pair a high-waisted skirt or pants with a bandeau top and a sheer – which happens to be another trend we’ve been seeing on runways and in retail. Lace, chiffon, and other variations of sheers can be found virtually everywhere, and are the perfect match for the midriff. Other interesting twists on the midriff, which are available and growing in popularity include triangular cutouts or missing panels on the sides of dresses, flashing a hint of waist without needing two separate pieces.

The new and improved midriff trend also already has a red carpet following, catching the attention of trend spotters already this year. The midriff received much consideration this year when up-and-coming actress Rooney Mara showed up to her premier of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo in Berlin, Germany wearing the fifth look from this spring’s Miu Miu collection. Also spotted taking the midriff look to the classy side this season’s is Scarlett Johansson, looking elegant as ever sporting a look from this seasons Dolce & Gabbana collection at a premier in New York City with just the slightest glimmer of skin right between her cap-sleeve top and A-line skirt.

With your annual springtime wardrobe re-vamp approaching, keep giving your midriff some time in the spotlight in mind. It’s fun, festive, and, with all of the new products and styles out there, may be hard to avoid.